The unusual shape of this compact camera may be the least strange part. A binocular brand just built a screen-free compact camera – and it houses several features others don’t

The Nocs Portal AFN7 Adventure Camera is a screen-free compact camera that possesses an unusual shape and features several capabilities not found in other cameras. Unlike most screen-free cameras, the Portal is splash-proof and weather-sealed to IP56 standards, rendering it ideal for outdoor use in various conditions.

The camera employs an electronic viewfinder instead of the conventional optical viewfinder, which enables the use of Nocs' binoculars and monoculars for enhanced zoom capability. This unique feature differentiates the Portal from other screen-free cameras which typically lack zoom functionality.

The camera's lens boasts a 22.5mm equivalent focal length and supports both 16MP stills and 4K 30p videos. The front of the camera features a mount for compatibility with Nocs' binoculars and monoculars, making it an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts who require extended reach. However, it is not designed to be submerged and is not suited for beach use without additional housing.

The Portal is built with a retro aesthetic in mind, offering six built-in presets, including two inspired by Kodak: Kodachrome and Kodak Gold. Additionally, its lightweight design (140g / 4.9 oz) allows for easy handling even while wearing gloves during outdoor activities. The camera is powered by a rechargeable Li-ion battery rated for approximately 500 shots or 30 minutes of video and accepts a MicroSD card for storage (4GB included).

Nocs Provisions, the company behind the Nocs Portal AFN7, has hinted at the possibility of a new series of cameras built around a similar concept. Priced at $179, the camera is available for direct shipping from the manufacturer and from retail partners such as REI.